Lavatory systems within an internal cabin of a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A lavatory system within an internal cabin of a vehicle includes an enclosure defining an interior chamber, a first lavatory unit within the interior chamber, and a second lavatory within the interior chamber. The first lavatory unit is adjacent to the second lavatory unit. In at least one embodiment, a lavatory within an internal cabin of a vehicle includes an interior chamber defined by one or more outer walls, and a storage compartment extending outwardly from at least one of outer walls. The storage compartment defines an internal storage space that connects to the interior chamber. In at least one embodiment, a lavatory includes a first lavatory unit, a second lavatory adjacent to the first lavatory unit, and a containment compartment common to the first lavatory unit and the second lavatory unit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application relates to and claims priority benefits from U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 63/133,308, entitled “LavatorySystems Within an Internal Cabin of a Vehicle,” filed Jan. 2, 2021,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This application also relates to and claims priority benefits from U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 63/133,309, entitled “LavatorySystems Having Storage Compartments,” filed Jan. 2, 2021, which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This application also relates to and claims priority benefits from U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 63/133,310, entitled “LavatorySystems Having Containment Compartments,” filed Jan. 2, 2021, which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to lavatorieswithin an internal cabin of a vehicle, such as a commercial aircraft.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between variouslocations. A typical commercial aircraft includes one or more lavatorieswithin an internal cabin.

Space within a commercial aircraft is limited. Notably, a lavatorywithin a commercial aircraft is typically relatively small in order toreduce space of the lavatory and increase space for other areas, such aspassenger seating. A larger lavatory would necessarily occupy more spacewithin a commercial aircraft, and may prevent additional passengerseating within an internal cabin. Aircraft operators typically prefer tohave additional passenger seating within an internal cabin, as theadditional passenger seating leads to increased revenues.

A typical lavatory within an internal cabin of an aircraft typicallyoccupies approximately 20%-30% more longitudinal area (that is, an areathat extends along and/or parallel to a longitudinal axis) of theinternal cabin than a seat assembly. In general, current lavatoriesgenerally displace six to twelve passenger seats. Certain internalcabins may be rearranged to ensure only six displaced passenger seats,but thereby cause cascading impacts to surrounding interior features,such as other monuments or areas within the internal cabin. Overall,including lavatories within an internal cabin of a commercial aircraft,while typically necessary, reduces space for other components,monuments, or the like within the internal cabin, such asrevenue-generating seats.

Further, persons of reduced mobility (such as individuals havingdisabilities, injuries, or a reduced ability to move) may find theconfined space of a lavatory within a commercial aircraft relativelydifficult to maneuver therein. Such individuals may have difficultymoving within the lavatory, such as between an entrance and a toilet,and between a toilet and a sink.

Accordingly, certain manufacturers have designed larger lavatories thatare specifically designed for persons of reduced mobility. However, inexpanding the size of the lavatory, space for other components (such aspassenger seating) within an internal cabin is necessarily reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A need exists for a lavatory system including multiple lavatory unitsthat occupy less space than known lavatories within an internal cabin ofa vehicle. A need exists for a lavatory system including multiplelavatory units that occupy less space than an equivalent number ofindividual lavatories. Further, a need exists for a lavatory system thatis readily and easily accessible by persons of limited mobility. Also, aneed exists for a multi-unit lavatory system that does not reduce spacefor additional seating within an internal cabin of a vehicle.

With those needs in mind, certain embodiments of the present disclosureprovide a lavatory system within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Thelavatory system includes an enclosure defining an interior chamber, afirst lavatory unit within the interior chamber, and a second lavatorywithin the interior chamber. The first lavatory unit is adjacent to thesecond lavatory unit. In at least one embodiment, the enclosure is asingle monument within the internal cabin. As an example, the firstlavatory unit and the second lavatory unit are side-to-side across aportion of the internal cabin. As an example, the first lavatory unit isinboard from the second lavatory unit within the internal cabin, and thesecond lavatory unit is outboard from the first lavatory unit within theinternal cabin.

In at least one embodiment, the enclosure includes a first end wall. Aninboard wall is connected to the first end wall. The inboard wall facesan aisle of the internal cabin. A second end wall is connected to theinboard wall. The second end wall is opposite from the first end wall.The second end wall faces an egress path of the internal cabin. Anoutboard wall is connected to the first end wall and the second endwall.

In at least one embodiment, the second end wall includes a first wallsegment that is parallel to the first end wall and perpendicular to theinboard wall. An angled wall segment angles toward the first end walland the outboard wall. A transition wall segment is connected to theangled wall segment. The transition wall segment is parallel to theinboard wall and the outboard wall. A second end wall segment isconnected to the transition wall and the outboard wall. The second endwall segment is parallel to the first end wall. In at least oneembodiment, the outboard wall is a portion of an outboard wall of theinternal cabin.

In at least one embodiment, the first lavatory unit includes a firstpassage that connects to an aisle of the internal cabin. A first door isconfigured to open and close the first passage. The second lavatory unitincludes a second passage that connects to an egress path of theinternal cabin. A second door is configured to open and close the secondpassage.

In at least one embodiment, the first lavatory unit has a first lengthand the second lavatory unit has a second length. The first length isgreater than the second length.

In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system also includes a dividerwall within the interior chamber. The divider wall separates the firstlavatory unit from the second lavatory unit. In at least one example,the divider wall is moveable between a closed position that separatesthe interior chamber into the first lavatory unit and the secondlavatory unit, and an open position, in which the interior chamberprovides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space.

The first lavatory unit includes a first sink and a first toilet and/orurinal. The second lavatory unit includes a second sink and a secondtoilet.

In an example, the lavatory system also includes a barrier moveablycoupled to one of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit.The barrier is moveable between an extended position and a retractedposition. The barrier in the extended position is disposed in front ofan exit door of the vehicle. The exit door is visible within theinternal cabin when the barrier is in the retracted position. Thebarrier may include a handle that is configured to be grasped to movethe barrier between the extended position and the retracted position.The barrier may include a sign that indicates a location of one or bothof the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit.

In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system also includes a storagecompartment extending outwardly from an outer wall of one or both of thefirst lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit. The storage compartmentdefines an internal storage space that connects to the interior chamber.For example, the storage compartment is at least a portion of a stowagebin assembly. As another example, the storage compartment is at least aportion of an end cap connected to a stowage bin assembly.

A storage access door may be disposed between the storage compartmentand the interior chamber. The storage access door is configured to bemoved between an open position and a closed position. The internalstorage space is opened to the interior chamber when the storage accessdoor is in the open position. The internal storage space is closed tothe interior chamber when the storage access door is in the closedposition. In at least one embodiment, the storage compartment isdirectly connected to the interior chamber, but is not within theinterior chamber.

An access opening connects the internal storage space to the interiorchamber. The access opening may be formed through the outer wall.

The storage compartment may include a lighting assembly within theinternal storage space. For example, the lighting assembly isoperatively coupled to a storage access door of the storage compartment.The lighting assembly is configured to activate to illuminate theinterior storage space when the storage access door is opened. Thelighting assembly is configured to be deactivated when the storageaccess door is closed.

In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system also includes acontainment compartment common to the first lavatory unit and the secondlavatory unit. For example, the containment compartment extends througha divider wall that separates the first lavatory unit from the secondlavatory unit.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment includes a firstinterior end wall within the first lavatory unit, a front wall, a rearwall, a base, an upper counter, and a second interior end wall oppositefrom the first interior end wall. The second interior end wall is withinthe second lavatory unit. The first interior end wall, the front wall,the rear wall, the base, the upper counter, and the second interior endwall define a containment chamber of the containment compartment. Atrash container may be stored within the containment compartment.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment also includes anaccess door within one of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatoryunit. The access door is moveable between an open position and a closedposition. The containment compartment is exposed when the access door isin the open position. The containment compartment is closed when theaccess door is in the closed position.

In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system also includes a firsttrash opening in the first lavatory unit. The first trash opening leadsto a containment chamber of the containment compartment. A second trashopening is in the second lavatory unit. The second trash opening leadsto the containment chamber of the containment compartment. As a furtherexample, a first trash duct is connected to the first trash opening, anda second trash duct is connected to the second trash opening.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method offorming a lavatory system within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Themethod includes providing an enclosure defining an interior chamber,forming a first lavatory unit within the interior chamber, and forming asecond lavatory within the interior chamber. The first lavatory unit isadjacent to the second lavatory unit.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicleincluding an internal cabin having an aisle and an egress path, and alavatory system within the internal cabin, as described herein.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lavatory withinan internal cabin of a vehicle. The lavatory includes an interiorchamber defined by one or more outer walls, and a storage compartmentextending outwardly from at least one of outer walls. The storagecompartment defines an internal storage space that connects to theinterior chamber. The lavatory may be at least one lavatory unit of alavatory system.

As an example, the storage compartment is at least a portion of astowage bin assembly. As another example, the storage compartment is atleast a portion of an end cap connected to a stowage bin assembly.

The lavatory may also include a storage access door disposed between thestorage compartment and the interior chamber. The storage access door isconfigured to be moved between an open position and a closed position.The internal storage space is opened to the interior chamber when thestorage access door is in the open position. The internal storage spaceis closed to the interior chamber when the storage access door is in theclosed position.

In at least one embodiment, the storage compartment is directlyconnected to the interior chamber, but is not within the interiorchamber.

As an example, an access opening connects the internal storage space tothe interior chamber. The access opening is formed through the one ormore outer walls.

The storage compartment may include a lighting assembly within theinternal storage space. The lighting assembly is operatively coupled toa storage access door of the storage compartment. For example, thelighting assembly is configured to activate to illuminate the interiorstorage space when the storage access door is opened. The lightingassembly is configured to be deactivated when the storage access door isclosed.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method offorming a lavatory within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The methodincludes defining an interior chamber of the lavatory by one or moreouter walls, extending a storage compartment outwardly from at least oneof the outer walls, and connecting an internal storage space of thestorage compartment to the interior chamber.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicleincluding an internal cabin, and a lavatory within an internal cabin ofa vehicle, as described herein.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lavatory systemwithin an internal cabin of a vehicle. The lavatory system includes afirst lavatory unit, a second lavatory adjacent to the first lavatoryunit, and a containment compartment common to the first lavatory unitand the second lavatory unit.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment extends througha divider wall that separates the first lavatory unit from the secondlavatory unit.

As an example, the containment compartment includes a first interior endwall within the first lavatory unit, a front wall, a rear wall, a base,an upper counter, and a second interior end wall opposite from the firstinterior end wall. The second interior end wall is within the secondlavatory unit. The first interior end wall, the front wall, the rearwall, the base, the upper counter, and the second interior end walldefine a containment chamber of the containment compartment. A trashcontainer may be stored within the containment compartment.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment includes anaccess door within one of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatoryunit. The access door is moveable between an open position and a closedposition. The containment compartment is exposed when the access door isin the open position. The containment compartment is closed when theaccess door is in the closed position.

In at least one embodiment, a first trash opening in the first lavatoryunit. The first trash opening leads to a containment chamber of thecontainment compartment. A second trash opening is in the secondlavatory unit. The second trash opening leads to the containment chamberof the containment compartment. As a further example, a first trash ductis connected to the first trash opening, and a second trash ductconnected to the second trash opening.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method offorming a lavatory system within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Themethod includes providing a containment compartment common to a firstlavatory unit and a second lavatory unit that is adjacent to the firstlavatory unit.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a vehicleincluding a containment compartment, as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of an aircraft,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of an aircraft,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin ofan aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective internal view of a lavatory within aninternal cabin of an aircraft.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system within an internalcabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system within an internalcabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system within an internalcabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system within an internalcabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a lavatory system proximate toan exit door, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of a barrier in an extended position,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a lavatory connected to a rowof overhead stowage bin assemblies, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a storage compartmentextending outwardly from the lavatory, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective internal view of a containmentcompartment for a first lavatory connected to a second lavatory,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified front view of the containmentcompartment common to the first lavatory and the second lavatory,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified front view of the containmentcompartment common to the first lavatory and the second lavatory,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of a method of forming a lavatorysystem within an internal cabin of a vehicle, according to an embodimentof the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a flow chart of a method of forming a lavatorywithin an internal cabin of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates a block diagram of a method of forming a lavatorywithin an internal cabin of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system within an internalcabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunctionwith the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recitedin the singular and preceded by the word “a” or “an” should beunderstood as not necessarily excluding the plural of the elements orsteps. Further, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to beinterpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments thatalso incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitlystated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an elementor a plurality of elements having a particular condition can includeadditional elements not having that condition.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a lavatory systemincluding two lavatory units within a common enclosure, such as asingle, common, monument. The lavatory units are arranged so as todisplace only a single three seat assembly unit. In at least oneembodiment, the lavatory system is located proximate to an end of acolumn of seats and an exit doorway. The lavatory system allows aircraftoperators to have four lavatories (two lavatories per lavatory system)within an area, and at the same time retain as many as eighteenpassenger seats, as compared to conventional lavatories within acommercial aircraft. As such, embodiments of the present disclosureprovide lavatory systems that allow for aircraft operators to maintainor even increase revenue-generating passenger seats within an internalcabin.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft 10, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 10 includes apropulsion system 12 that includes engines 14, for example. Optionally,the propulsion system 12 may include more engines 14 than shown. Theengines 14 are carried by wings 16 of the aircraft 10. In otherembodiments, the engines 14 may be carried by a fuselage 18 and/or anempennage 20. The empennage 20 may also support horizontal stabilizers22 and a vertical stabilizer 24.

The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an internal cabin 30, whichincludes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (forexample, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), oneor more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class,and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. Theinternal cabin 30 includes one or more lavatory systems, lavatory units,or lavatories, as described herein.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the presentdisclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles,buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further,embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixedstructures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

FIG. 2A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 30 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 30 may be within the fuselage 32 of the aircraft, such asthe fuselage 18 of FIG. 1. For example, one or more fuselage walls maydefine the internal cabin 30. The internal cabin 30 includes multiplesections, including a front section 33, a first class section 34, abusiness class section 36, a front galley station 38, an expandedeconomy or coach section 40, a standard economy of coach section 42, andan aft section 44, which may include multiple lavatories and galleystations. It is to be understood that the internal cabin 30 may includemore or less sections than shown. For example, the internal cabin 30 maynot include a first class section, and may include more or less galleystations than shown. Each of the sections may be separated by a cabintransition area 46, which may include class divider assemblies betweenaisles 48.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the internal cabin 30 includes two aisles 50 and 52that lead to the aft section 44. Optionally, the internal cabin 30 mayhave less or more aisles than shown. For example, the internal cabin 30may include a single aisle that extends through the center of theinternal cabin 30 that leads to the aft section 44.

The aisles 48, 50, and 52 extend to egress paths or door passageways 60.Exit doors 62 are located at ends of the egress paths 60. The egresspaths 60 may be perpendicular to the aisles 48, 50, and 52. The internalcabin 30 may include more egress paths 60 at different locations thanshown. As described herein, lavatory systems may be located at orproximate to intersections of the aisles 48, 50, 52 and the egress paths60.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 80 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 80 is an example of the internal cabin 30 shown inFIG. 1. The internal cabin 80 may be within a fuselage 81 of theaircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define theinternal cabin 80. The internal cabin 80 includes multiple sections,including a main cabin 82 having passenger seats 83, and an aft section85 behind the main cabin 82. It is to be understood that the internalcabin 80 may include more or less sections than shown.

The internal cabin 80 may include a single aisle 84 that leads to theaft section 85. The single aisle 84 may extend through the center of theinternal cabin 80 that leads to the aft section 85. For example, thesingle aisle 84 may be coaxially aligned with a central longitudinalplane of the internal cabin 80.

The aisle 84 extends to an egress path or door passageway 90. Exit doors92 are located at ends of the egress path 90. The egress path 90 may beperpendicular to the aisle 84. The internal cabin 80 may include moreegress paths than shown. As described herein, lavatory systems may belocated at or proximate to intersections of the aisle 84 and one or moreegress paths 90.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin 100of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.The internal cabin 100 is an example of the internal cabin 30, shown inFIG. 1. The internal cabin 100 includes outboard walls 102 connected toa ceiling 104. Windows 106 may be formed within the outboard walls 102.A floor 108 supports rows of seats 110. As shown in FIG. 3, a row 112may include two seats 110 on either side of an aisle 113. However, therow 112 may include more or less seats 110 than shown. Additionally, theinternal cabin 100 may include more aisles than shown.

Passenger service units (PSUs) 114 are secured between an outboard wall102 and the ceiling 104 on either side of the aisle 113. The PSUs 114extend between a front end and rear end of the internal cabin 100. Forexample, a PSU 114 may be positioned over each seat 110 within a row112. Each PSU 114 may include a housing 116 that generally containsvents, reading lights, an oxygen bag drop panel, an attendant requestbutton, and other such controls over each seat 110 (or groups of seats)within a row 112.

Overhead stowage bin assemblies 118 are secured to the ceiling 104and/or the outboard wall 102 above and inboard from the PSU 114 oneither side of the aisle 113. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118are secured over the seats 110. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118extend between the front and rear end of the internal cabin 100. Eachstowage bin assembly 118 may include a pivot bin or bucket 120 pivotallysecured to a strongback (hidden from view in FIG. 3). The overheadstowage bin assemblies 118 may be positioned above and inboard fromlower surfaces of the PSUs 114. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 118are configured to be pivoted open in order to receive passenger carry-onbaggage and personal items, for example.

As used herein, the term “outboard” means a position that is furtheraway from a central longitudinal plane 122 of the internal cabin 100 ascompared to another component. The term “inboard” means a position thatis closer to the central longitudinal plane 122 of the internal cabin100 as compared to another component. For example, a lower surface of aPSU 114 may be outboard in relation to a stowage bin assembly 118.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective internal view of a lavatory 130 withinan internal cabin of a vehicle, such as any of the internal cabinsdescribed herein. The lavatory 130 is an example of an enclosed space,monument or chamber, such as within the internal cabin of the aircraft10, shown in FIG. 1. The lavatory 130 may be onboard an aircraft, asdescribed above. Optionally, the lavatory 130 may be onboard variousother vehicles. In other embodiments, the lavatory 130 may be within afixed structure, such as a commercial or residential building. Thelavatory 130 includes a base floor 131 that supports a toilet 132(and/or a urinal), cabinets 134, and a sink 136 or wash basin. Thelavatory 130 may be arranged differently than shown. The lavatory 130may include more or less components than shown.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system 150 within aninternal cabin 152, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The lavatory system 150 may be used within any of theinternal cabins described herein, such as the internal cabins shown anddescribed with respect to FIGS. 1-3.

The lavatory system 150 includes a single enclosure 154 (such as amonument) that includes a first lavatory unit 156 adjacent to a secondlavatory unit 158. That is, the lavatory system 150 is a singlemonument. The first lavatory unit 156 and the second lavatory unit 158are disposed laterally across a portion of the internal cabin 152,instead of longitudinally along an aisle 160. That is, the firstlavatory unit 156 and the second lavatory 158 are side-to-side across aportion of the internal cabin 152, instead of end-to-end along a lengthof the internal cabin 152. In this manner, the lavatory system 150extends over a smaller longitudinal portion (such as one longitudinalarea 162) of the internal cabin 152, instead of an extended longitudinalportion (for example, two longitudinal areas (such as if the firstlavatory unit 156 and the second lavatory unit 158 were end-to-end)),thereby freeing up additional space for other components, such asanother monument (such as a galley), or additional passenger seats (suchas a three seat assembly), which generate revenue for an aircraftoperator.

The lavatory system 150 provides two lavatory units, such as the firstlavatory unit 156 and the second lavatory unit 158, while displacingonly a single seating assembly having three passenger seats. Theside-to-side configuration of the first and second lavatory units 156and 158 provides multiple lavatory units while allowing for additionalpassenger seating, for example (in contrast to lavatories that aredisposed end-to-end). In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system150 provides multiple lavatory units within the space of a three seatingunit passenger seating assembly.

The first lavatory unit 156 is an inboard lavatory unit, and the secondlavatory unit 158 is an outboard lavatory unit. It is to be understoodthat the terms first and second are merely for labeling purposes. Afirst lavatory unit may be a second lavatory unit, and vice versa.

The single enclosure (such as a monument) 154 that defines the lavatorysystem 150 includes a first end wall 164 (or first system end wall) thatconnects to an inboard wall 166 (or system inboard wall) facing theaisle 160. The inboard wall 166 connects to a second end wall 168 (orsecond system end wall) opposite from the first end wall 164. The secondend wall 168 faces an egress path 170 that connects to the aisle 160. Inat least one embodiment, the second end wall 168 includes a first wallsegment 172 that may be parallel to the first end wall 164 (andperpendicular to the inboard wall 166). The first wall segment 172connects to an angled wall segment 174 that angles toward the first endwall 164 and an outboard wall 176 (or system outboard wall) thatconnects to the first end wall 164 and the second end wall 168. Theangled wall segment 174, in turn, connects to a transition wall segment176, which may be parallel to the inboard wall 166 and the outboard wall178. The transition wall segment 178 connects to a second wall segment180, which may be parallel to the first end wall 164 and perpendicularto the outboard wall 176. Optionally, the angled wall segment 174 mayconnect directly to the second wall segment 180 without the transitionwall segment 178. The second wall segment 180 connects to the outboardwall 178.

In at least one embodiment, the outboard wall 176 is a portion of anoutboard wall of the internal cabin 152, such as the outboard wall 102shown in FIG. 3. That is, the outboard wall 102, in part, defines theinternal cabin 152. Using a portion of the outboard wall of the internalcabin 152 to provide the outboard wall 176 provides increased interiorspace within the lavatory system 150. In at least one other embodiment,the outboard wall 176 is a separate wall that abuts against or isotherwise proximate to the outboard wall of the internal cabin 152.

The first end wall 164, the inboard wall 166, the second end wall 168and the outboard wall 176 define the outer perimeter of the enclosure154 (and the monument 155), and an interior chamber 182 of the lavatorysystem 150. That is, the enclosure 154 defines the interior chamber 182.The enclosure 154 is within the internal cabin 152. The enclosure 154 isnot the internal cabin 152. For example, an internal cabin may includemultiple lavatories. However, the internal cabin 152 includes theenclosure 154, which includes the first lavatory unit 156 and the secondlavatory unit 158 within the interior chamber 182 of the enclosure 154(in contrast to two distinct lavatories abutting one another). Theenclosure 154 includes the first lavatory unit 156 and the secondlavatory unit 158 within the interior chamber 182. The first lavatoryunit 156 and the second lavatory unit 158 are within the interiorchamber 182.

The first lavatory unit 156 includes a passage 184 that connects to theaisle 160. A door 186 is moveably coupled to the first end wall 164and/or the inboard wall 166. The door 186 faces the aisle 160 and isconfigured to be moved between a closed position, in which the passage184 is closed to the aisle 160, and an open position, in which thepassage 184 is open to the aisle 160. When the door 186 is in the openposition, an individual may pass between the aisle 160 and the firstlavatory unit 156 through the passage 184.

The second lavatory unit 158 includes a passage 188 that connects to theegress path 170. A door 190 is moveably coupled to the second end wall168 (such as the second wall segment 180, and/or the outboard wall 176.The door 190 faces the egress path 170 and is configured to be movedbetween a closed position, in which the passage 188 is closed to theegress path 170, and an open position, in which the passage 188 is opento the egress path 170. When the door 190 is in the open position, anindividual may pass between the egress path 170 and the second lavatoryunit 158 through the passage 188.

In at least one embodiment, a length 192 of the first lavatory unit 156is greater than a length 194 of the second lavatory unit 158. Forexample, the first lavatory unit 156 may extend along a greaterlongitudinal length of the aisle 160 than the second lavatory unit 158.As such, the second wall segment 180 including the passage 188 of thesecond lavatory unit 158 may be recessed further toward the first endwall 164 as compared to the first wall segment 172.

A divider wall 196 is disposed within the interior chamber 182 andextends between the first end wall 164 and the second end wall 168. Thedivider wall 196 separates the first lavatory unit 156 from the secondlavatory unit 158. The divider wall 196 may include a first dividersegment 198 that may be perpendicular to the first end wall 174. Thefirst divider segment 198 connects to an angled divider segment 200 thatangles toward the inboard wall 166 and the first wall segment 172. Theangled divider segment 200 connects to a second divider segment 202 thatmay be parallel to the first divider segment 198. The second dividersegment 202 may connect to the transition wall segment 178 and/oranother portion of the second end wall 168.

In at least one embodiment, the first lavatory unit 156 is definedbetween the inboard wall 166, the first wall segment 172, the angledwall segment 174, the transition wall segment 178, a first side 204 ofthe divider wall 196, and an inboard segment 165 (that is, the portioninboard from the divider wall 196) of the first end wall 164. The secondlavatory unit 158 is defined between the outboard wall 176, an outboardsegment 167 (that is, the portion outboard from the divider wall 196) ofthe first end wall 164, a second side 206 (opposite from the first side204) of the divider wall 196, and the second wall segment 180 of thesecond end wall 168.

The first lavatory unit 156 includes a first sink 208 and a first toilet210 with a first standing space 212 in front of the first toilet 210.The first sink 208 may be located at or proximate to a corner 209defined by the first side 204 of the divider wall 196 and the inboardsegment 165 of the first end wall 164. The first toilet 210 may belocated at or proximate to a corner 211 defined by the inboard wall 166and the second end wall 168. The term toilet as used herein includes oneor both of standard toilet or a urinal.

The second lavatory unit 158 includes a second sink 214 and a secondtoilet 216 with a second standing space 218 in front of the secondtoilet 216. The second sink 214 may be located at or proximate to acorner 213 defined by the second side 206 of the divider wall 196 andthe second wall segment 180 of the second end wall 168. The secondtoilet 216 may be located at or proximate to a corner 215 defined by theoutboard wall 176 and the outboard segment 167 of the first end wall164.

The configurations of the sinks and toilets of the first lavatory unit156 and the second lavatory unit 158 shown in FIG. 5 are merelyexemplary. The sinks and toilets may be located at various other areasthan shown.

In at least one embodiment, a flight attendant assist space 220 islocated in front of the second wall segment 180 of the second end wall168, such as in front of the passage 188. The flight attendant assistspace 220 may be proximate to an exit door at an end of the egress path170. The flight attendant assist space 220 is an open area in which aflight attendant may stand to assist individuals entering and exitingthe egress path 170. The second lavatory unit 158 is sized andconfigured to preserve a defined required area (such as a 12″×20″ area)for the flight attendant assist space, such as may be required by aregulatory agency (for example, the United States Federal AviationAdministration). The angled wall segment 174 may provide an egress flowdirector that guides and directs individuals toward the exit door whenleaving the internal cabin 152, and toward the aisle 160 when enteringthe internal cabin 152.

FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of the lavatory system 150 within theinternal cabin 152, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. In this embodiment, the first sink 208 of the first lavatoryunit 156 may be coupled to the first side 204 of the divider wall 196 atan intermediate location between the first end wall 164 and the secondend wall 168, and the second sink 214 may be coupled to the outboardwall 176. The configurations of the sinks and toilets of the firstlavatory unit 156 and the second lavatory unit 158 shown in FIG. 6 aremerely exemplary. The sinks and toilets may be located at various otherareas than shown.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the lavatory system 150 within theinternal cabin 152, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The lavatory system 150 shown in FIG. 7 is similar to thatshown in FIG. 5, except that the divider wall 196 may be configured tobe moved between a closed position, which separates the interior chamber182 into the defined first lavatory unit 156 and the second lavatoryunit 158, and an open position, in which the interior chamber 182provides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space, which is easilyand comfortably accessible by persons of limited mobility. The firstsink 208, the first toilet 210, the second sink 214, and the secondtoilet 216 may not be connected to moveable portions of the divider wall196. For example, the divider wall 196 may include a plurality offoldable segments 230 coupled together through hinges 232 that allow thedivider wall 196 to be folded and disconnected from one or both of thefirst end wall 166 and the second end wall 168. In this manner, thedivider wall 196 is foldable or otherwise collapsible. The divider wall196 in the collapsed position may be secured against an interior wall,and/or removed and stored within the lavatory system 150 or anotherportion of the internal cabin 152. As another example, the divider wall196 may be configured to telescope between open and closed positions. Asanother example, the divider wall 196 may be configured to slide betweenopen and closed positions. As another example the divider wall 196 maybe a curtain or drape, which may include sound-dampening elements. Inshort, the divider wall 196 may be a movable wall having segments thatare configured to move in order to allow the divider wall 196 to bemoved between open and closed positions.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the lavatory system 150 within theinternal cabin 152, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The lavatory system 150 shown in FIG. 8 is similar to thatshown in FIG. 6, except that the divider wall 196 may be configured tobe moved between a closed position, which separates the interior chamber182 into the defined first lavatory unit 156 and the second lavatoryunit 158, and an open position, in which the interior chamber 182provides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space, which is easilyand comfortably accessible by persons of limited mobility, as describedwith respect to FIG. 7.

FIG. 19 illustrates a top view of a lavatory system 150 within aninternal cabin, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Inthis embodiment, the lavatory system 150 includes divider wall 196having one or more sliding or telescoping segments 197.

Referring to FIGS. 5-8 and 19, the lavatory system 150 allows for thespace of three passenger seats to be occupied by two lavatory units.Traditional lavatories consume approximately 20% to 30% morelongitudinal space than a passenger seat, resulting in six to twelvepassenger seats displaced for two lavatories to be installed. Atraditional lavatory area size ranges between 10.8 to 13.4 square feet.In contrast, the lavatory system 150 as described herein provides twolavatory units, such as within a thirteen square foot area, which may bethe same or similar area of a single triple passenger seat assembly(60″×32″).

In at least one embodiment, the lavatory system 150 may located at anend of a column of seats proximate to an exit doorway. The second (oroutboard) lavatory unit 158 opens to the egress path 170 such as alateral exit passageway into the preserved space used during by flightattendants during emergency evacuations (the lavatory is not in useduring this critical time). The first (or inboard) lavatory unit 156opens to the aisle 160 or alternatively to the same egress path 170. Asan option, the first lavatory unit 156 may extend longitudinally furtherthan the second lavatory unit 158 because the first lavatory unit 156 isinboard of the flight attendant assist space 220.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the lavatory system 150proximate to an exit door 260, such as that of an aircraft, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure. The exit door 260 is at an endof the egress path 170. As an option, the lavatory system 150 mayinclude a moveable barrier 262 that is moveably coupled to the secondlavatory unit 158. The barrier 262 can be a panel, wall, screen, door,curtain, or the like that is configured to be moved between an extendedposition, as shown in FIG. 9, in which the barrier 262 is disposed infront of the exit door 260, and a retracted position, in which the exitdoor 260 is visible within the internal cabin 152.

The barrier 262 can be movably coupled to the second lavatory unit 158,another portion of the lavatory system 150, or a portion of the internalcabin, such as through hinges, slides and tracks, or the like. Forexample, the barrier 262 is configured to pivot between the extendedposition and the retracted position, such as about one or more hinges.As another example, the barrier 262 is configured to slide between theextended position and the retracted position. As another example, thebarrier 262 is configured to unfold and fold between the extendedposition and the retracted position.

As passengers are entering and exiting the internal cabin 152, such asinto the egress path 170 through the exit door 260 in the openedposition, the barrier 262 is in the retracted position. During a flight,the barrier 262 is moved to the extended position, as shown in FIG. 9.In the extended position, the barrier 262 conceals the exit door 260, orat least a portion thereof (such as a handle 264), which protects theexit door 260 from being touched, and may assure certain individualsthat there is no risk of the handle 264 being inadvertently grasped.

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of the barrier 262 in the extendedposition, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thebarrier 262 can include a handle 270, which may be grasped to move thebarrier 262 between the extended and retracted positions. The barrier262 can also include a sign 272 that indicates a location of the secondlavatory unit 158 (shown in FIG. 9), particularly because the door ofthe second lavatory unit 158 may be hidden from the view by an extendedportion of the first lavatory unit 156. The sign 272 can be painted orprinted on the barrier 262. As another example, the sign 272 can be adecal. As another example, the sign 272 can be a plate or panel mountedon the barrier 262. As another example, the sign 272 can be illuminated,such as through one or more light assemblies.

The barrier 262 may be used with any of the lavatory systems 150described herein. Optionally, the lavatory systems 150 may not includethe barrier 262.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a lavatory 300 connected to arow 302 of overhead stowage bin assemblies 304 (such as the stowage binassemblies 118 shown in FIG. 3), according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. The lavatory 300 may be the lavatory systems 150, asdescribed herein. For example, the lavatory 300 may be the secondlavatory unit 156, as shown in FIGS. 5-9. As another example, thelavatory 300 may be a single unit lavatory, whether or not part of thelavatory system 150 described herein.

A portion of the row 302 directly connects to the lavatory 300, such asa fore or aft end of the lavatory 300. For example, a stowage binassembly 304 may directly connect to the lavatory 300, such as at anupper portion 306 of the lavatory 300. As another example, an end cap308 of the row 302 connects a stowage bin assembly 304 to the lavatory300.

The end cap 308 and/or a stowage bin assembly 304 provides a storagecompartment 310 that extends outwardly from an outer wall 312 of thelavatory 300, such as at an upper overhead portion that is aligned withthe stowage bin assemblies 304. The storage compartment 310 defines aninternal storage space 314 that connects to an interior chamber 316 ofthe lavatory 300. One or more outer walls (including the outer wall 312)defines the interior chamber 316. The storage compartment 310 extendsoutwardly from one or more of the outer walls. That is, the storagecompartment 310 is not within the interior chamber 316. In this manner,the storage compartment 310 may replace one or more cabinets that wouldotherwise be within the lavatory 300, thereby freeing up additionalspace within the lavatory 300.

A moveable compartment or storage access door may be disposed betweenthe storage compartment 310 and the interior chamber 316 of the lavatory300. The storage access door is moveable between an open position, inwhich the internal storage space 314 is opened to the interior chamber316, and a closed position, in which the internal storage space isclosed to the interior chamber 316. Various supplies, such as toiletpapers, facial tissue, and the like, may be stored within the internalstorage space 314, instead of within the interior chamber 316 of thelavatory 300.

As shown, the storage compartment 310 directly connects to the interiorchamber 316 of the lavatory 300, but is not within the interior chamber316. Instead, the storage compartment 310 may be part of the end cap 308and/or a stowage bin assembly 304 outside of the interior chamber 316 ofthe lavatory 300. The internal storage space 314 of the storagecompartment 310 is accessible from within the interior chamber 316 ofthe lavatory 300. By recessing cabinet space into the end cap 308 and/oran overhead stowage bin assembly 304, more space (which may otherwise beoccupied by one or more cabinets) is created within the interior chamber316. In general, the storage compartment 310 coupled to the lavatory 300reduces a need for cabinet space within the lavatory 300.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the storage compartment 310extending outwardly from the lavatory 300, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. As noted, the storage compartment 310 may be atleast part of an end cap coupled to a stowage bin assembly, oroptionally at least part of a stowage bin assembly. An access opening320 connects the internal storage space 314 of the storage compartment310 to the interior chamber 316 of the lavatory 300. The access opening320 may be formed through a wall 322 of the lavatory 300, such as a foreor aft wall.

A storage access door 324 is moveably coupled to the storage compartment310 and/or the wall 322. The storage access door 324 is moveable betweenan open position and a closed position. The storage access door 324 maypivot about one or more hinges, slides over one or more tracks, and/orthe like between the open position and the closed position.

In at least one embodiment, a lighting assembly 326 may be disposedwithin the storage compartment 310. The lighting assembly 326 isconfigured to illuminate the interior storage space 314. In at least oneembodiment, the lighting assembly 326 is operatively coupled to thestorage access door 324, such as through a switch 328, for example. Inthis manner, the lighting assembly 326 may be activated to illuminatethe interior storage space 314 when the storage access door 324 isopened, and deactivated when the storage access door 324 is closed.

The storage compartment 310 may be used with any of the embodimentsdescribed herein. For example, the storage compartment 310 may beconnected to any of the lavatories or lavatory units described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective internal view of a containmentcompartment 300 for a first lavatory 302 connected to a second lavatory304, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. A lavatorysystem 301 includes the first lavatory 302, the second lavatory 304, andthe containment compartment 300 that is common to (for example, sharedby) the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304. The containmentcompartment 300 defines a containment chamber 303. In at least oneembodiment, the first lavatory 302 is the first lavatory unit 156, andthe second lavatory 304 is the second lavatory 158, as shown anddescribed with respect to FIGS. 5-9, for example. Optionally, the firstlavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304 may be other than the firstlavatory 156 and the second lavatory unit 304.

The first lavatory 302 is separated from the second lavatory 304 by adivider wall 306. For example, the divider wall 306 may be the dividerwall 196, as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 5-9.

The first lavatory 302 includes a first housing 308 (such as a firstcabinet) and the second lavatory 310 includes a second housing 310 (suchas a second cabinet). The containment compartment 300 is common to boththe first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 310. The containmentcompartment 300 extends through the divider wall 196.

The containment compartment 300 includes a first interior end wall 312that connects to a front wall 314, a rear wall 316, a base 318, and anupper counter 320 that extend between (and/or form portions of) thefirst housing 308 and the second housing 310. The front wall 314, therear wall, the base 318, and the upper counter 320 connect to a secondinterior end wall 322 opposite from the first interior end wall 312. Thefirst interior end wall 312 is within the first lavatory 302, and thesecond interior end wall 322 is within the second lavatory 304. Thefirst interior end wall 312 may be part of the first housing 308, suchas a first cabinet, and the second interior end wall 322 may be part ofthe second housing 310, such as a second cabinet.

The first interior end wall 312, the front wall 314, the rear wall 316,the base 318, the upper counter 320 (which extends through the dividerwall 306), and the second interior end wall 322 define the containmentchamber 303 of the containment compartment 300. The containmentcompartment 300 is common to the first lavatory 302 and the secondlavatory 304. The containment compartment 300 is shared by both thefirst lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304.

A trash container 330 is configured to be stored within the containmentcompartment 300. An access door 332 is coupled to the front wall 314,such as within the first lavatory 302. For example, the access door 332is moveably coupled to the front wall 312 within first lavatory 302 (oroptionally the second lavatory 304). The access door 302 is moveablycoupled to the front wall 314, such as through one or more hinges,slides and tracks, and/or the like. As such, the access door 302 isconfigured to pivotally or slidably move between an open position, inwhich the containment chamber 303 of the containment compartment 300 isexposed, and a closed position, in which the containment chamber 303 ofthe containment compartment 300 is closed. When the access door 302 isin the open position, the trash container 330 may be selectively removedand repositioned.

A first trash opening 340 having a moveable lid 341 is formed in theupper counter 320 within the first lavatory 302. A second trash opening342 having a moveable lid 343 is formed in the upper counter 320 withinthe second lavatory 302. The first trash opening 340 and the secondtrash opening 342 both lead to the containment chamber 303 of thecontainment compartment 300, which is common to both the first lavatory302 and the second lavatory 304. In this manner, trash disposed withinboth the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304 may be discardedthrough the respective first trash opening 340 and the second trashopening 320 into the trash container 330, which is disposed within thecontainment chamber 303 of the containment compartment 300.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment 300 may beconfigured to contain a fire therein. For example, interior wallportions that define the containment compartment 300 may be formed offire retardant materials, and joints between the walls and the accessdoor 332 in the closed position may sealingly engage one another tolimit a flow of oxygen into the containment compartment 300 when theaccess door 332 is closed. Further, the containment compartment 300 mayretain a fire suppression device 350, such as a fire extinguisher, thatis shared by the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304.

The containment compartment 300 retains the trash container 330, whichis used by both the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304,thereby economizing space for both the first lavatory 302 and the secondlavatory 304. In this manner, additional space is provided for both theneighboring first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory 304. Thecontainment compartment 300 provides access to the single trashcontainer 330 from separate, but neighboring lavatories 302 and 304,which are separated by the divider wall 306.

The containment compartment 300 may be used with any of the embodimentsdescribed herein. For example, the containment compartment 300 may beused with respect to any neighboring lavatories or lavatory units, asdescribed herein.

FIG. 14 illustrates a simplified front view of the containmentcompartment 300 common to the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory302, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thecontainment compartment 300 extends through the divider wall 306 so thata first portion 300 a of the containment compartment 300 a is within thefirst lavatory 302, and a second portion 300 b of the containmentcompartment 300 b is within the second lavatory 302.

In at least one embodiment, a first container portion 330 a of the trashcontainer 330 is underneath the first trash opening 340, and a secondcontainer portion 330b of the trash container 330 is underneath thesecond trash opening 342. As such, trash passed into and through thefirst trash opening 340 and the second trash opening 342 is receivedwithin a containing chamber 331 of the trash container 330.

FIG. 15 illustrates a simplified front view of the containmentcompartment 300 common to the first lavatory 302 and the second lavatory304, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The trashcontainer 330 may not be positioned directly below the first trashopening 340 and/or the second trash opening 342. As such, a first trashduct 350 may be connected to the first trash opening 340, and a secondtrash duct 352 may be connected to the second trash opening 342. Thefirst trash duct 350 and the second trash duct 352 lead to containingchamber 331 of the trash container 330.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of a method 400 of forming a lavatorysystem within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The method 400 includesproviding, at 402, an enclosure defining an interior chamber; forming,at 404, a first lavatory unit within the interior chamber, and forming,at 406, a second lavatory within the interior chamber. The firstlavatory unit is adjacent to the second lavatory unit.

In at least one example, said forming 406 the second lavatory incudesproviding a portion of an outboard wall of the internal cabin as anoutboard wall of the second lavatory.

In at least one example, said forming 404 the first lavatory unitincludes connecting a first passage of the first lavatory unit to anaisle of the internal cabin, and said forming 406 the second lavatoryunit includes connecting a second passage of the second lavatory unit toan egress path of the internal cabin.

In at least one embodiment, the method includes providing a divider wallwithin the interior chamber, and separating the first lavatory unit fromthe second lavatory unit with the divider wall. As a further example,the method may include moving the divider wall between a closed positionthat separates the interior chamber into the first lavatory unit and thesecond lavatory unit, and an open position, in which the interiorchamber provides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space.

As another example, the method includes moveably coupling a barrier toone of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, and movingthe barrier is between an extended position and a retracted position.The barrier in the extended position is disposed in front of an exitdoor of the vehicle. The exit door is visible within the internal cabinwhen the barrier is in the retracted position.

Optionally, the method includes providing, at 408, a storage compartmentthat extends outwardly from an outer wall of one or both of the firstlavatory unit or the second lavatory unit. The storage compartmentdefines an internal storage space that connects to the interior chamber.As another option, the method includes 408 in relation to lavatorysystem, a lavatory, or lavatory unit, and not steps 402-406.

Optionally, the method includes providing, at 410, a containmentcompartment that is common to the first lavatory unit and the secondlavatory unit. As another option, the method includes 410 in relation toa lavatory system, a lavatory, or lavatory unit, and not steps 402-408.As another option, the method includes steps 408 and 410, but not steps402-406.

FIG. 17 illustrates a flow chart of a method 500 of forming a lavatorywithin an internal cabin of a vehicle. The method 500 includes defining,at 502, an interior chamber of the lavatory by one or more outer walls;extending, at 504, a storage compartment outwardly from at least one ofthe outer walls; and connecting, at 506, an internal storage space ofthe storage compartment to the interior chamber.

In at least one example, the method includes forming at least a portionof a stowage bin assembly as the storage compartment. As anotherexample, the method includes forming at least a portion of an end capconnected to a stowage bin assembly as the storage compartment.

In at least one embodiment, the method includes disposing a storageaccess door disposed between the storage compartment and the interiorchamber; and moving the storage access door moved between an openposition and a closed position. The internal storage space is opened tothe interior chamber when the storage access door is in the openposition. The internal storage space is closed to the interior chamberwhen the storage access door is in the closed position.

In at least one embodiment, said extending includes directly connectingthe storage compartment to the interior chamber. The storage compartmentis not within the interior chamber.

As an example, the method includes forming an access opening through theone or more outer walls, and connecting the internal storage space tothe interior chamber through the access opening.

In at least one embodiment, the method includes providing a lightingassembly within the internal storage space of the storage compartment.As a further example, the method includes operatively coupling thelighting assembly to a storage access door of the storage compartment;activating the lighting assembly to illuminate the interior storagespace when the storage access door is opened; and deactivating thelighting assembly when the storage access door is closed.

FIG. 18 illustrates a block diagram of a method 600 of forming alavatory system within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The method 600includes providing, at 602, a containment compartment common to a firstlavatory unit and a second lavatory unit that is adjacent to the firstlavatory unit.

In at least one example, the method includes extending the containmentcompartment through a divider wall that separates the first lavatoryunit from the second lavatory unit.

In at least one embodiment, the containment compartment includes a firstinterior end wall within the first lavatory unit, a front wall, a rearwall, a base, an upper counter, and a second interior end wall oppositefrom the first interior end wall. The second interior end wall is withinthe second lavatory unit. The first interior end wall, the front wall,the rear wall, the base, the upper counter, and the second interior endwall define a containment chamber of the containment compartment.

In at least one embodiment, the method includes storing a trashcontainer within the containment compartment.

As another example, the method includes providing an access door withinone of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit; and movingthe access door between an open position and a closed position. Thecontainment compartment is exposed when the access door is in the openposition. The containment compartment is closed when the access door isin the closed position.

In at least one embodiment, the method includes forming a first trashopening in the first lavatory unit. The first trash opening leads to acontainment chamber of the containment compartment. The method alsoincludes forming a second trash opening in the second lavatory unit. Thesecond trash opening leads to the containment chamber of the containmentcompartment. As a further example, the method includes connecting afirst trash duct to the first trash opening, and connecting a secondtrash duct to the second trash opening.

As an example, the method includes containing the first lavatory unitand the second lavatory unit within a single monument within theinternal cabin.

As an example, the method includes disposing the first lavatory unit andthe second lavatory unit side-to-side across a portion of the internalcabin.

Referring to FIGS. 1-18, as described herein, embodiments of the presentdisclosure provide lavatory units that occupy less space than knownlavatories within an internal cabin of a vehicle. Further, embodimentsof the present disclosure provide lavatory units that are readily andeasily accessible by persons of limited mobility. Also, embodiments ofthe present disclosure provide multi-unit lavatory systems that do notreduce space for additional seating within an internal cabin of avehicle.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower,mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like can be used todescribe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood thatsuch terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in thedrawings. The orientations can be inverted, rotated, or otherwisechanged, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa,horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is “configuredto” perform a task or operation is particularly structurally formed,constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task oroperation. For purposes of clarity and the avoidance of doubt, an objectthat is merely capable of being modified to perform the task oroperation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as usedherein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-describedembodiments (and/or aspects thereof) can be used in combination witheach other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the variousembodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. Whilethe dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended todefine the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, theembodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Manyother embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments ofthe disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled. In the appended claims and the detailed descriptionherein, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as theplain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and“wherein.” Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. areused merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numericalrequirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the followingclaims are not written in means-plus-function format and are notintended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and untilsuch claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed bya statement of function void of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the variousembodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also toenable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodimentsof the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems andperforming any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the variousembodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and can includeother examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such otherexamples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if theexamples have structural elements that do not differ from the literallanguage of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A lavatory system within an internal cabin of avehicle, the lavatory system comprising: an enclosure defining aninterior chamber; a first lavatory unit within the interior chamber; anda second lavatory within the interior chamber, wherein the firstlavatory unit is adjacent to the second lavatory unit.
 2. The lavatorysystem of claim 1, wherein the enclosure is a single monument within theinternal cabin.
 3. The lavatory system of claim 1, wherein the firstlavatory unit and the second lavatory unit are side-to-side across aportion of the internal cabin.
 4. The lavatory system of claim 1,wherein the first lavatory unit is inboard from the second lavatory unitwithin the internal cabin, and wherein the second lavatory unit isoutboard from the first lavatory unit within the internal cabin.
 5. Thelavatory system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises: a first endwall; an inboard wall connected to the first end wall, wherein theinboard wall faces an aisle of the internal cabin; a second end wallconnected to the inboard wall, wherein the second end wall is oppositefrom the first end wall, wherein the second end wall faces an egresspath of the internal cabin; and an outboard wall connected to the firstend wall and the second end wall.
 6. The lavatory system of claim 5,wherein the second end wall comprises: a first wall segment that isparallel to the first end wall and perpendicular to the inboard wall; anangled wall segment that angles toward the first end wall and theoutboard wall; a transition wall segment connected to the angled wallsegment, wherein the transition wall segment is parallel to the inboardwall and the outboard wall; and a second end wall segment connected tothe transition wall and the outboard wall, wherein the second end wallsegment is parallel to the first end wall.
 7. The lavatory system ofclaim 5, wherein the outboard wall is a portion of an outboard wall ofthe internal cabin.
 8. The lavatory system of claim 1, wherein the firstlavatory unit comprises a first passage that connects to an aisle of theinternal cabin, wherein a first door is configured to open and close thefirst passage, wherein the second lavatory unit comprises a secondpassage that connects to an egress path of the internal cabin, wherein asecond door is configured to open and close the second passage.
 9. Thelavatory system of claim 1, wherein the first lavatory unit has a firstlength and the second lavatory unit has a second length, and wherein thefirst length is greater than the second length.
 10. The lavatory systemof claim 1, further comprising a divider wall within the interiorchamber, wherein the divider wall separates the first lavatory unit fromthe second lavatory unit.
 11. The lavatory system of claim 10, whereinthe divider wall is moveable between a closed position that separatesthe interior chamber into the first lavatory unit and the secondlavatory unit, and an open position, in which the interior chamberprovides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space.
 12. The lavatorysystem of claim 1, wherein the first lavatory unit comprises a firstsink and a first toilet, and wherein the second lavatory unit comprisesa second sink and a second toilet.
 13. The lavatory system of claim 1,further comprising a barrier moveably coupled to one of the firstlavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, wherein the barrier ismoveable between an extended position and a retracted position, whereinthe barrier in the extended position is disposed in front of an exitdoor of the vehicle, and wherein the exit door is visible within theinternal cabin when the barrier is in the retracted position.
 14. Thelavatory system of claim 13, wherein the barrier comprises a handle thatis configured to be grasped to move the barrier between the extendedposition and the retracted position.
 15. The lavatory system of claim13, wherein the barrier comprises a sign that indicates a location ofone or both of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit. 16.The lavatory system of claim 1, further comprising a storage compartmentextending outwardly from an outer wall of one or both of the firstlavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, wherein the storagecompartment defines an internal storage space that connects to theinterior chamber.
 17. The lavatory system of claim 16, wherein thestorage compartment is at least a portion of a stowage bin assembly. 18.The lavatory system of claim 16, wherein the storage compartment is atleast a portion of an end cap connected to a stowage bin assembly. 19.The lavatory system of claim 16, further comprising a storage accessdoor disposed between the storage compartment and the interior chamber,wherein the storage access door is configured to be moved between anopen position and a closed position, wherein the internal storage spaceis opened to the interior chamber when the storage access door is in theopen position, and wherein the internal storage space is closed to theinterior chamber when the storage access door is in the closed position.20. The lavatory system of claim 16, wherein the storage compartment isdirectly connected to the interior chamber, but is not within theinterior chamber.
 21. The lavatory system of claim 16, wherein an accessopening connects the internal storage space to the interior chamber,wherein the access opening is formed through the outer wall.
 22. Thelavatory system of claim 16, wherein the storage compartment comprises alighting assembly within the internal storage space.
 23. The lavatorysystem of claim 22, wherein the lighting assembly is operatively coupledto a storage access door of the storage compartment, wherein thelighting assembly is configured to activate to illuminate the interiorstorage space when the storage access door is opened, and wherein thelighting assembly is configured to be deactivated when the storageaccess door is closed.
 24. The lavatory system of claim 1, furthercomprising a containment compartment common to the first lavatory unitand the second lavatory unit.
 25. The lavatory system of claim 24,wherein the containment compartment extends through a divider wall thatseparates the first lavatory unit from the second lavatory unit.
 26. Thelavatory system of claim 24, wherein the containment compartmentcomprises: a first interior end wall within the first lavatory unit; afront wall; a rear wall; a base; an upper counter; and a second interiorend wall opposite from the first interior end wall, wherein the secondinterior end wall is within the second lavatory unit, wherein the firstinterior end wall, the front wall, the rear wall, the base, the uppercounter, and the second interior end wall define a containment chamberof the containment compartment.
 27. The lavatory system of claim 24,further comprising a trash container stored within the containmentcompartment.
 28. The lavatory system of claim 24, wherein thecontainment compartment further comprises an access door within one ofthe first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, wherein the accessdoor is moveable between an open position and a closed position, whereinthe containment compartment is exposed when the access door is in theopen position, and wherein the containment compartment is closed whenthe access door is in the closed position.
 29. The lavatory system ofclaim 24, further comprising: a first trash opening in the firstlavatory unit, wherein the first trash opening leads to a containmentchamber of the containment compartment; and a second trash opening inthe second lavatory unit, wherein the second trash opening leads to thecontainment chamber of the containment compartment.
 30. The lavatorysystem of claim 29, further comprising: a first trash duct connected tothe first trash opening; and a second trash duct connected to the secondtrash opening.
 31. A method of forming a lavatory system within aninternal cabin of a vehicle, the method comprising: providing anenclosure defining an interior chamber; forming a first lavatory unitwithin the interior chamber; and forming a second lavatory within theinterior chamber, wherein the first lavatory unit is adjacent to thesecond lavatory unit.
 32. The method of claim 31 wherein said formingthe second lavatory comprises providing a portion of an outboard wall ofthe internal cabin as an outboard wall of the second lavatory.
 33. Themethod of claim 31, wherein said forming the first lavatory unitcomprises connecting a first passage of the first lavatory unit to anaisle of the internal cabin, wherein said forming the second lavatoryunit comprises connecting a second passage of the second lavatory unitto an egress path of the internal cabin.
 34. The method of claim 31,further comprising: providing a divider wall within the interiorchamber; and separating the first lavatory unit from the second lavatoryunit with the divider wall.
 35. The method of claim 34, furthercomprising moving the divider wall between a closed position thatseparates the interior chamber into the first lavatory unit and thesecond lavatory unit, and an open position, in which the interiorchamber provides an enlarged, expanded single lavatory space.
 36. Themethod of claim 31, further comprising: moveably coupling a barrier toone of the first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit; and movingthe barrier is between an extended position and a retracted position,wherein the barrier in the extended position is disposed in front of anexit door of the vehicle, and wherein the exit door is visible withinthe internal cabin when the barrier is in the retracted position. 37.The method of claim 31, further comprising providing a storagecompartment that extends outwardly from an outer wall of one or both ofthe first lavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, wherein the storagecompartment defines an internal storage space that connects to theinterior chamber.
 38. The method of claim 31, further comprisingproviding a containment compartment that is common to the first lavatoryunit and the second lavatory unit.
 39. A vehicle comprising: an internalcabin having an aisle and an egress path; and a lavatory system withinthe internal cabin, the lavatory system comprising: an enclosuredefining an interior chamber, wherein the enclosure is a single monumentwithin the internal cabin; a first lavatory unit within the interiorchamber, wherein the first lavatory unit comprises a first passage thatconnects to the aisle of the internal cabin; a second lavatory withinthe interior chamber, wherein the second lavatory unit comprises asecond passage that connects to an egress path of the internal cabin,wherein the first lavatory unit is inboard from the second lavatory unitwithin the internal cabin, and wherein the second lavatory unit isoutboard from the first lavatory unit within the internal cabin, whereinthe first lavatory unit is adjacent to the second lavatory unit, whereinthe first lavatory unit and the second lavatory unit are side-to-sideacross a portion of the internal cabin; a divider wall within theinterior chamber, wherein the divider wall separates the first lavatoryunit from the second lavatory unit; a storage compartment extendingoutwardly from an outer wall of one or both of the first lavatory unitor the second lavatory unit, wherein the storage compartment defines aninternal storage space that connects to the interior chamber; and acontainment compartment common to the first lavatory unit and the secondlavatory unit.
 40. The vehicle of claim 39, wherein the lavatory systemfurther comprises a barrier moveably coupled to one of the firstlavatory unit or the second lavatory unit, wherein the barrier ismoveable between an extended position and a retracted position, whereinthe barrier in the extended position is disposed in front of an exitdoor of the vehicle, and wherein the exit door is visible within theinternal cabin when the barrier is in the retracted position.